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Kansas City drivers are no strangers to tough road conditions. From icy roads in the winter to heavy rain in the spring, the area sees its fair share of hazardous weather that can lead to serious crashes. Weather-related car accidents are more common than many people realize, and they often cause significant damage, injuries, and legal complications.
Kansas City experiences all four seasons, which means the roads are constantly changing. Snow, ice, rain, fog, and even strong winds can all make driving more dangerous. These conditions reduce visibility, affect tire traction, and limit a driver’s ability to stop or steer safely.
Data from the USDOT Federal Highway Administration shows that snowy and icy roads contribute to an average of 536,731 crashes, 136,309 injuries, and 1,836 deaths each year in the United States, over a ten-year period. That’s a significant number of weather-related car accidents that could often be avoided with better awareness and caution.
Winter driving accidents are among the most severe because they often involve slick road car crashes caused by black ice or snow-covered highways. Drivers may assume that just because they’re going slowly, they won’t be at risk. But in many winter cases, reduced tire grip means even cautious drivers can lose control.
These weather-related car accidents often involve multiple vehicles, especially on highways where one slide can lead to chain-reaction collisions. Poorly plowed streets and untreated bridges only make the problem worse.
One of the most misunderstood aspects of weather-related car accidents is who is legally responsible. While the weather itself can be a factor, the truth is that drivers are still expected to adjust their behavior according to road conditions.
If a driver fails to slow down during a snowstorm or doesn’t leave enough space between vehicles in heavy rain, they can still be held liable for the crash. In legal terms, negligence means failing to act as a reasonable person would under the circumstances. That includes bad weather.
In other words, blaming the snow won’t hold up in court if you were tailgating or driving too fast for conditions.
After a crash, insurance companies quickly begin assessing who was at fault and how much they’re willing to pay. In weather-related cases, they’ll review dashcam footage, police reports, and any available witness statements. They may also send their own adjusters to inspect the scene and damage.
Knowing when to talk to the insurance is critical. Many people make the mistake of giving too much information or accepting a low settlement before speaking to an attorney. That’s why it’s important to talk to a car accident attorney who understands how to handle weather-related claims and can negotiate with insurers on your behalf.
If you’re involved in a crash during snow, rain, or fog, your safety should come first. Move your vehicle to the side if possible, and turn on hazard lights. Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Injuries from slick road car crashes sometimes don’t show up right away.
Document everything you can. Take photos of the damage, the road conditions, and any signs nearby. Get contact information from witnesses and other drivers. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.
Next, speak with a car accident lawyer to review your options. A qualified attorney can help you understand your rights and determine whether you have a valid claim for compensation.
It’s also worth noting that weather-related car accidents often happen on roads that are poorly designed or maintained. Curves without warning signs, potholes, and poor drainage can all contribute to crashes. These dangerous roads may be the responsibility of local governments or municipalities, which means liability could extend beyond just the drivers involved.
Weather may trigger an accident, but deeper infrastructure issues often make conditions even worse.
Another major concern is distracted driving. When drivers text, check GPS, or eat while behind the wheel, they are less prepared to react to sudden weather hazards. Taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds during a snowstorm or thunderstorm can result in a crash with serious consequences.
In fact, the combination of distraction and slick roads is one of the leading causes of preventable accidents.
Every weather-related accident has a time limit for filing a claim. This is known as the statute of limitations, and missing the deadline could mean losing your right to compensation. In Kansas, you typically have two years from the date of the accident, but it’s always best to act sooner.
If you were injured in a crash caused by snow, rain, ice, or other hazardous conditions, don’t wait to get help. Insurance companies will be quick to minimize your claim, and you’ll need someone who can advocate for your best interest.
At Wallentine Injury Law, we understand how stressful weather-related car accidents can be. If you’ve been injured in a winter driving accident or slick road car crash, call us at (913) 934-6333. Our team has nearly two decades of experience helping accident victims, and we can help guide you through every step of your claim and fight for fair compensation.
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